Our mission is to improve literacy skills using an engaging curriculum, dedicated volunteers, and certified dogs.
Yes, you read that right- dogs!
Since 2003, we have been working to increase reading fluency, build comprehension skills, improve written expression, establish positive attitudes towards reading and writing, and develop an understanding of and connection with animals through our grade-level literacy programming.
We serve Kindergarten, first, second, and third grades in under-resourced Chicago Public Schools, targeting our partnerships at schools that serve students with less access to resources. In the 2018-19 school year, 94.4% of SitStayRead partner school students came from low-income households and 73% of third-graders scored below the national average in reading, according to Chicago Public School data. It is important to us to make literacy accessible and equitable to all!
The core of our programming lies in our curriculum. We use a curriculum designed to support key literacy skills at each grade level. Each program is created in partnership with our Program Advisory Committee, which includes SitStayRead staff, volunteers, teachers, and faculty from the University of Illinois at Chicago Center for Literacy, University of Chicago, DePaul University, and Northeastern Illinois University, and is built using Common Core standards. Each program uses dog-themed books and materials and incorporates different reading and writing skills and initiatives.
We believe that routine assessment of our programs is important to make sure we are providing programming that really makes an impact. We partner with the Department of School Psychology at Loyola University Chicago annually for program assessment to ensure their effectiveness and to give us a picture of where the students are and what their needs are.
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11-50 employees
View all SitStayRead employees
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Primary and Secondary Education
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7736619251
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2849 N. Clark St., Chicago, 60657, US
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2003
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Books!, Dogs!, Dog Visits, Guest Readers, Kids!, Reading Rewards, Summer Reading Fun Packs
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The decision makers in SitStayRead are Amy Taylor, Amy Taylor, Anyea Taylor, etc. Click to Find SitStayRead decision makers emails.
SitStayRead provides a unique program that combines reading with the therapeutic benefits of interacting with trained therapy dogs. The organization offers reading sessions where children can practice their reading skills in a low-pressure environment, allowing them to build confidence and improve their literacy skills. Additionally, SitStayRead conducts workshops and training for educators and volunteers to enhance their understanding of literacy development and the positive impact of therapy animals.
Schools and community organizations can partner with SitStayRead by reaching out through the contact form on their website. The organization is open to collaborations that promote literacy and support children's educational needs. Partnerships may involve hosting reading sessions, participating in community events, or integrating SitStayRead's programs into existing literacy initiatives. SitStayRead is committed to working with local entities to foster a love for reading among children.
SitStayRead primarily serves children in grades K-5, focusing on early literacy development. The program is designed to engage young readers who may struggle with reading or lack confidence in their abilities. By providing a supportive environment with therapy dogs, SitStayRead aims to make reading a fun and enjoyable experience for children in this age range.
Yes, the therapy dogs used in SitStayRead's programs are certified and trained specifically for educational settings. These dogs undergo rigorous training to ensure they are well-behaved, gentle, and comfortable around children. The presence of these therapy dogs helps create a calming atmosphere, allowing children to focus on reading without fear of judgment.
There are several ways to support SitStayRead's mission to improve children's literacy. Individuals can volunteer their time, donate funds, or contribute supplies such as books and educational materials. Additionally, spreading the word about SitStayRead's programs and initiatives within your community can help raise awareness and encourage more children to participate in their literacy programs.
SitStayRead has demonstrated a positive impact on children's literacy rates through its innovative approach to reading. Many participants report increased confidence in their reading abilities, improved reading fluency, and a greater enthusiasm for books. The combination of therapy dogs and reading practice has been shown to reduce anxiety and create a more engaging learning environment, ultimately contributing to better literacy outcomes for children involved in the program.
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